Protest Group UltraViolet Praises Reebok From Dropping Rick Ross

The group that is responsible for protest that were carried out in front of a Reebok Store in Manhattan is now applauding the Shoe and Apparel Brand for its decision on yesterday to drop rapper Rick Ross based on controversial song lyrics.

It was last week that the group mobilized a significant crowd to protest Reebok’s use of Rick Ross as an endorsement agent. The controversy is centered on Ross’ controversial lyrics on the Rocko song U.O.E.N.O., lyrics that are believed to imply rape. After the protest Ross took to Twitter to apologize for what he called the perception of the lyrics. He also stated that he does not condone rape. Ross’ apology apparently did not appease the group as they continued to push for Reebok to release him.

On yesterday, the group received the response from Reebok that it was looking for. The Brand announced that it had severed ties with Rick Ross and their business relationship would no longer continue. They cited the fact that Ross did not align with the values of Reebok as a company. They also expressed their disappointment in what they consider to be a halfhearted apology and response to the issue by the rapper.

“We are very disappointed that Rick Ross has yet to display an understanding of the seriousness of this issue.”

Ultraviolet co-founder spoke out about the move by Reebok.

“This is a huge victory for women, for the 526 survivors of rape who were brave enough to publicly confront rape culture, and for the nearly 100,000 UltraViolet members who have poured their hearts and time into this campaign,” Chaudhary continued. “This sends a strong message that rapping about drugging and raping an unconscious woman is not only morally wrong, but has real consequences.” She closed by saying, “Thank you Reebok for taking a stand.”